Everyone has childhood memories that linger. Snippets of a scene, a cascading trail of notes from a seldom-heard song, or the scent of baked goods made by someone special. When I was very young, I remember seeing a reindeer display – life-size! – on our neighbor’s house. That there was a display other than traditional lights was something. But this display was animated. I don’t remember whether Santa was on the sleigh, but I do remember those reindeer legs moving back and forth. It was magic. And I never forgot it.
So it will be for hundreds of the very young who witnessed Santa lighting the majestic tree atop the Al. Ringling Theatre at the climax of the Holly Jolly Parade on Saturday night. A mammoth hook and ladder fire truck hoisted the jovial guy two stories up in the air. The lights on the crane, and his way with the crowd made it truly wonderful. It wasn’t a “McDonald’s moment.” It wasn’t over in a flash. We all watched as the crane took its time, getting closer, closer, closer…the crowd cheering Santa on…until finally, the marquee exploded with lights that made everyone jump. And he still had to light the tree. No, this effort was carefully timed and prepared.
And truly, it will be a memory that many will never forget.
And the parade? Three spectacular bands (including the UW Marching Band from Madison), floats, animals, horses and more candy thrown in the streets than I’ve seen in YEARS made it a whopper of a parade. Truly a success.
